‘Religion’
sparks row

DISRESPECTFUL and insensitive are the only words some people can find to describe the name of a new night time venue.

Religion opened its doors on Westgate last week, and while some people think its name is inappropriate enough, themed nights called Monday Mass, Resurrection and Salvation seem to be adding insult to injury.

The Express has been inundated with complaints about it, and the issue has even been reported to the police.

Yesterday, the Bishop of Wakefield, the Rt Rev Stephen Platten, said he was not against people enjoying themselves and going to clubs, but he said he did think it was insensitive, adding: “There’s a whole host of topics they could have chosen.

“Some of the names of the events are insensitive.

“Religion is about taking life seriously. Would people have been amused if they’d called it health, which is an equally serious topic, and named some of the rooms A&E or gynaecology?”

The Dean of Wakefield, Jonathan Greener was in two minds about it.

He said: “I think it’s being rather insensitive to Christians. The names it has chosen refer to ideas and activities that hold deep meaning for Christian people, and the way the new club is using them could be seen to be sending them up.

“On the other hand, it could be argued that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and if people want to experience the real thing, they are always most welcome at the cathedral.”

City centre police inspector Richard Close, said no offence had been committed.

He said: “Parliament passed legislation under section 17 of the Public Order Act aimed at outlawing crime where the offender is motivated by hostility or hatred towards the victims race or religious belief.

“In my opinion and experience the management of the premise are neither showing hatred or hostility, they are without doubt utilising words from the Bible to further their business interest, which in the eyes of some may be distasteful.”

The Express tried to contact Religion for a comment, but no-one was available.